NWS reports a confirmed tornado touchdowns in Wadena and Hubbard counties this morning. There are several reports of damage, including a half mile wide swath from the eastern side of Park Rapids northward. It’s too early to tell if this was one tornado or multiple tornadoes.

There are also reprts of homes damaged and cars in the ditch. Here are the latest reports from the Grand Forks NWS.

Menahga [Wadena Co, MN] public reports TORNADO at 09:25 AM CDT — report from public relayed to law enforcement.

Park Rapids [Hubbard Co, MN] emergency mngr reports TORNADO at 09:35 AM CDT — tornado produced widespread roof damage east side of park rapids.trees down cars in ditch 1 mile north of hwy 34 on cty road 4 near emmaville/lake george.trees down south of town. tornado moving to the northeast.

The severe weather threat has passed for the metro, but northern Minnesota remains under as tornado watch until 4pm this afternoon. Stay tuned to Minnesota Public Radio for severe weather updates as they are issued.

About the blogger

Paul Huttner is chief meteorologist for Minnesota Public Radio. Huttner has worked TV and radio stations in Minneapolis, Tucson and Chicago. Paul is a graduate of Macalester College in St. Paul and holds a bachelor’s degree in geography with an emphasis in meteorology.